A Gift to Grow New York City's Urban Forest

View the press release here

Thanks to a generous gift from The Novogratz Family Foundation, New York Restoration Project is proud to launch an ambitious new effort to expand and restore New York City’s urban tree canopy—starting in Northern Manhattan and reaching communities across the five boroughs.

Over the next two years, NYRP will continue to lead a major reforestation effort in Highbridge Park, one of Northern Manhattan’s most important green spaces. Working alongside NYC Parks, dedicated volunteers, and our on-the-ground Highbridge Park team, we will plant and care for 700 native trees.

This work will focus on replacing invasive species and restoring a healthier, more resilient forest ecosystem—one that supports local wildlife, improves air quality, and creates a more welcoming space for the surrounding community.

This generous funding also expands our ongoing 1,000 Chestnut Challenge, a bold effort to help bring back the American chestnut throughout New York City.

Once one of the most abundant and important tree species in North America, the American chestnut was nearly wiped out in the early 20th century. With this additional support, NYRP will plant and distribute 300 American chestnut seedlings across the city, working with community members and environmental partners to reintroduce this historic species.

As cities face growing climate challenges, investments in urban forests are more important than ever—and this initiative represents a powerful step toward a more resilient, equitable New York City.

“This extraordinary support from The Novogratz Family Foundation is an investment in the future of New York City,” said NYRP Executive Director Lynn Bodnar Kelly. “By helping restore and expand the urban forest in Highbridge Park and beyond, this partnership will bring more beauty, biodiversity, and climate resilience to our city—while creating meaningful opportunities for New Yorkers to connect with nature.”

For The Novogratz Family Foundation, the gift is both personal and forward-looking. “In a world full of ‘stuff,’ we could sure use more trees,” said Michael Novogratz. “We look forward to watching this urban canopy grow and shade future generations of New Yorkers.”